One 4 All 4 One
[4 Guitars] [score & parts]
The Assad name will no doubt draw you straight in, especially if you’ve read the review of Pulse, the latest album by the talented French group Quatuor Éclisses, that appeared recently in this very publication and described the piece as a gem written specifically for the players. So let’s begin with the caution that this piece is not going to be under the fingers of many ensembles. The work is divided into four sections and an epilogue that run end to end. The real challenge is in the rhythm, rather than the speed or complexity of the handiwork. It’s obvious that considerable energy has gone into the typesetting and attention to detail, but I wonder whether the eventual sales will justify that effort.
Guitar Four gets a raw deal, with the sixth string wound way down to A and the fifth string to G, coupled with having the only part with unkind page turns; but to compensate, the rhythms are perhaps a little less scary. Overall the sound is compelling and the dissonances charming, generating a refreshing soundscape. There are pleasing harmonies and a bigger wall of sound than normal tuning could achieve. The rhythm is easier on the ear than it is on the eye, but this delightful piece will be beyond all but the most talented amateur ensembles; suited to a small minority.
- Derek Hasted (Classical Guitar Magazine)
| Featured Product | Yes |
|---|---|
| Composer | ASSAD, SERGIO |
| Availability | Available |
| TAB/Notation | Music Notation Only |
| Level of Difficulty | 5 |
| Description | The Assad name will no doubt draw you straight in, especially if you’ve read the review of Pulse, the latest album by the talented French group Quatuor Éclisses, that appeared recently in this very publication and described the piece as a gem written specifically for the players. So let’s begin with the caution that this piece is not going to be under the fingers of many ensembles. The work is divided into four sections and an epilogue that run end to end. The real challenge is in the rhythm, rather than the speed or complexity of the handiwork. It’s obvious that considerable energy has gone into the typesetting and attention to detail, but I wonder whether the eventual sales will justify that effort. Guitar Four gets a raw deal, with the sixth string wound way down to A and the fifth string to G, coupled with having the only part with unkind page turns; but to compensate, the rhythms are perhaps a little less scary. Overall the sound is compelling and the dissonances charming, generating a refreshing soundscape. There are pleasing harmonies and a bigger wall of sound than normal tuning could achieve. The rhythm is easier on the ear than it is on the eye, but this delightful piece will be beyond all but the most talented amateur ensembles; suited to a small minority. - Derek Hasted (Classical Guitar Magazine) |